
Shields Down: Healing for First Responders
Welcome to "Shields Down: Healing for First Responders," the podcast dedicated to helping first responders navigate PTSD recovery, stress management, and emotional resilience. Hosted by Adam Henson, this series dives deep into the mental health challenges faced by police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and correctional officers, providing expert insights, real-life stories, and practical strategies for healing.
Each episode may feature mental health professionals, trauma specialists, and first responders who have walked the path of PTSD recovery, sharing actionable tools for managing stress, anxiety, trauma, and burnout. From coping with critical incidents to building emotional strength and peer support, we cover what it takes to reclaim your mental well-being while continuing to serve.
🔹 Topics We Cover:
✔️ PTSD and trauma recovery in first responders
✔️ Mental health strategies for police, firefighters, paramedics & COs
✔️ Coping mechanisms for stress, anxiety, and burnout
✔️ How to build resilience and emotional armor
✔️ Navigating family life and relationships with PTSD
✔️ The role of peer support and professional help
✔️ Overcoming the stigma of mental health in first responder culture
✔️ Work-life balance strategies for high-stress careers
✔️ Mindfulness, self-care, and stress reduction techniques
✔️ Real stories of hope, strength, and post-traumatic growth
âś” Plus more...
Join us as we break the silence around PTSD and mental health in first responders. Whether you're struggling, supporting a loved one, or simply looking to strengthen your mental fitness, "Shields Down" is your safe space for guidance, connection, and healing.
🎙️ Subscribe now and take the first step toward recovery—because lowering your shield is the first step to reclaiming your strength. Your well-being matters, and your journey isn’t over.
Episodes
The Power of Self-Awareness: Emotional Intelligence in High-Stress Situations

Breaking the Cycle: Identifying and Managing Emotional Triggers

Behind the Badge: A Wife's Journey Through Love, Sacrifice, and Resilience

From Survival to Strength: Building Resilience Amid Trauma

Taming the Storm: Emotional Regulation for First Responders

"Self-Compassion in Service: Caring for Yourself While Caring for Others"

"Beyond the Call: Integrating Mindfulness into Life Off-Duty"

"Mindfulness in Crisis Response: Staying Calm Under Pressure"

Mindful Response: Navigating Stress for First Responders

How can you maintain a positive mindset during a challenging shift.

"Embracing Failure: Turning Setbacks into Success for First Responders"

Mindset Makeover: Transforming personal growth for First Responders

Shaping Resilience: the role of environment in law enforcement mindset

Unlocking Resilience: Cultivating a growth mindset for first responders

Mastering Mindset Shifts, Building Resilience, and Embracing Change as a First Responder

Thriving on the job: Overcoming challenges in the line of duty

Navigating the Aftermath: Life beyond the call of duty

From Surviving to Thriving: Strategies for Emotional Resilience for First Responders

Breaking the Stigma: Opening up about mental health

The Silent Battle: Understanding PTSD in First Responders
